Did you know that what you eat has an impact on your happiness? Studies have shown that good nutrition will not only be good for your general health but also for your well-being.

Traveling abroad is a journey of discovery and that of course includes…food! Discovering local gastronomy is an experience you can’t miss whilst abroad. It’s the perfect way to explore expressions of culture, and experience the destination in a sustainable way. Food brings people together, fuels the adventure and therefore brings greater happiness.

We’ve compiled a few tips to eat well and thus, feel well. Be your best-self while traveling overseas on holiday and feel good after!

Foodie’s delight!

You know the feeling when you finally satisfy that something you’ve been craving for? A great holiday is that feeling. Choosing an all-inclusive holiday at Club Med is that feeling.

What’s yummy at Club Med

If you’re looking for international cuisine, local gastronomy, or something fresh…look no further! Club Med takes you on your own personal culinary journey. You’ll find it hard to choose between the authentic local dishes, international cuisine and scrumptious delicacies… But fear not, you can have it all, everyday! Enjoy the exciting flavours of each dish and get a taste of your destination. It’s a recipe for the most delicious holiday!

Wellness Gastronomy

The value of good food is immeasurable for your mind, body and soul. The goal of a great holiday is to find the perfect balance of being happy and healthy, without sacrificing too much on either side.

Healthy body, healthy mind at Club Med

We’re proud to launch a partnership with the incredibly talented Samantha Gowing, a renowned Australian chef and clinical nutritionist. Gowing has teamed up with Club Med and designed delicious and healthy menus for nine Club Med resorts over the Asia Pacific region. The new dishes served are inspired by her wellness gastronomy philosophy.

Responsibly sourced ingredients

Minimising your environmental footprint by eating locally produced food helps contribute to a healthier world and a healthier you. If your meal is sourced locally, it’s fresher and it’s hands down going to be tastier!

Freshest ingredients at Club Med

At Club Med, we are committed to using organic, local produce in the dishes we prepare when we can. Local produce benefits your health, peace of mind, and the world around us. To improve your dining experience and thus, your holiday, we’ve partnered with local and agro-ecological suppliers across all of our resorts around the world.

Want to know why those fresh veggies that you ate at Club Med Bali tasted soooo delicious? They were delivered directly from the Balinese farm by locals!

You don’t have to worry about what’s on your plate at Club Med, we do it for you! Last thing, don’t forget to share your foodie pics and all your holiday happy snaps with #ClubMed for a chance to be featured on our Instagram page.

Happy Friendship Day! As today is the International Friendship Day, it’s time to prove to your friends how much you care about them… to express your gratefulness, why not suggest taking the most unforgettable girls trip EVER?

Planning a trip together is not an easy task, picking a date is the first step but then comes the hardest part: agree on a destination. We don’t want you to mess-up your friendship over holiday planning, especially during this special day, so we’re here to help you choose the right place depending on your holiday mood.

And don’t forget that whichever destination you choose, the most important thing is to have your friend(s) by your side and have lots of fun!

Life’s a beach

credits: @elle_fit

What’s better than having your best friend with you to go on a sea and sun holiday? You’ll share wonderful moments together tanning atop the whitest sand you’ve ever seen, having some relaxing massages under the palm-trees, discovering the underwater world equipped with your mask and snorkel. Come live your dream holiday with your BFF in Club Med Kani all-inclusive resort!

Memories with margaritas

credits: @paulienriemis

If your idea of the ultimate girls trip includes loads of fun and a great vibe, you should select a place where festive atmosphere is part of the destination! At Club Med Cancun Yucatan in Mexico, you and your party mate(s) can enjoy the open bar during the night, part of the all-inclusive formula of the resort, and discover the wonders of the Mayan culture during the day : Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Tulum…

Nature getaway

credits: @thefrenchieescapes

Do you consider yourselves eco-warriors? Good news, you can experience an eco-friendly way of life in one of our Green Globe certified resorts, Club Med Cherating Beach in Malaysia. This jungle escape destination will be the perfect place to relax and have fun: boat-ride in the Mangrove, yoga class in a peaceful environment, sailing lessons to reach Pantai Beach… And it won’t keep you from doing good for the planet: you’ll have the opportunity to take part in the turtle conservation or cleaning the beaches of the region.

Fully Active

credits: @oliviayoga.paris

If you’re sporty people and are keen to try new activities like flying trapeze, one of our best resorts for acrobatic activities is Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Its partnership with the famous “Cirque du Soleil” will be the perfect place to test your friendship up in the air, and to forget about the gravity laws. If at some point you want to get back on the ground, you can still enjoy a lot of other land activities from a various range of choices: golf, archery, tennis, basketball, beach volleyball… And where to recover from the effort? Either in our Zen Oasis, by the zen pool, or by the quiet white sanded beaches.

Ready to fly into a new adventure with your favorite(s) companion(s)? Have a look on our website to discover our latest offers, and don’t hesitate to share pictures of your friendship moments with the hashtag #ClubMed.

We get it, with so many amazing destinations on offer, it’s tough to pick just one! Throw into the mix trying to decide on dates and it all seems a bit too hard. Don’t fret: we’ve got you covered.

To help you plan your trip ahead, we selected our top 10 unmissable events to mark in your calendar and make the most of your precious holiday time.

#1 Bahamas Carnival

1st - 2nd - 3rd May

On an island in the middle of the Caribbean sea, the Bahamas carnival is one of the most festive carnivals that you can do either with friends or family. You can expect to hear local bands playing, watch beautiful parades in multi-coloured disguises and dance shows.

Our advice is to stay in the Bahamas a few days more to enjoy the island getaway in the Club Med Colombus Isle all-inclusive resort: resting on white sand beaches, scuba diving in the turquoise water, boat tour of San Salvador Island…

#2 Body & Soul , Club Med Bintan Island

11th May - 8th June

Need to revitalize under the palm trees? We’re proud to announce that Club Med is hosting its own wellness journey in Club Med Bintan Island, Indonesia. This retreat, part of the all-inclusive package is the best way to revitalize your mind, body and soul thanks to international wellness instructors and special partners. In a tropical environment, Body & Soul is the best event to experience a healthy holistic lifestyle (it’s all about balance) around 4 themes : feel well, eat well, move well and play well.

#3 Ubud Food Festival

26th - 27th - 28th May

A gastronomic event with a special mission: showcase diverse Indonesian cuisine thanks to innovative chefs and extraordinary local products. The little extra that makes the difference? It’s a sustainable event!

Where to stay:

Continue your culinary journey from Club Med Bali with its many delicious dining options!

#4 Laguna Phuket Marathon

13th - 14th June

During the 13th-14th June, join fellow sport-lovers in Phuket for the Laguna Marathon! This marathon offers many races for different runners and different distances. For an experience mixing amazing landscape and sport, the sunrise race is a must-do!

Where to stay:

Phuket is well-known for being the right place to dive into Thai culture : don’t miss discovering the cultural gems of Thailand through thrilling excursions, and all other activities proposed by our Club Med Phuket all-inclusive resort.

#5 Taomoda, Sicily

13th - 20th July

Taomoda is the place to be next July in Sicily: an international fashion event happening in Sicily, in the authentic city of Taormina. You’ll spend your evenings watching spectacular fashion shows on the catwalks and attending cultural events. The week ends with the Tao Awards in the splendid Greek-Roman ancient theater.

Where to stay:

Come live the Italian Dolce Vita and spend your amazing holiday in Club Med Cefalu, Sicily.

#6 Tokyo Olympics

24th July - 9th August

This year, it’s time to fulfill your dream and attend the biggest sport event in the world! Be part of history and see the world’s best athletes up close.

Where to stay:

After a few days in the buzzing energy of Tokyo, head to Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido and finish your trip amongst nature and relaxation.

#7 Art Marbella

30th July - 3rd August

Calling all art-lovers! There’s an art event happening on the Spanish coast under the Andalusian sun that you don’t want to miss! From the 30th July until 3rd August, the first major international art fair in Marbella is the place to see the best exhibitions of Modern & Contemporary Art. Escape the heat and wander through the galleries to contemplate the beautiful artwork.

Where to stay:

In the south of Andalusia, the wonderful all-inclusive Club Med Marbella resort will be your perfect hideaway to tan by the pool and enjoy the Spanish sun.

#8 Kite Festival , Bali

July-August

If you’re thinking about family holidays in Bali, the Kite Festival is the perfect event to be reunited and have lots of fun all together! This religious festival happening during July and August is ideal to experience an authentic Indonesian celebration. In beautiful rice paddies, you’ll admire the traditional giant kites flying in a multi-coloured sky. Balinese are making figures with these 10 meter kites with such ability, it’ll blow your mind. The Gamelan orchestra playing local music with percussive instruments will turn the place into a festive atmosphere.

Where to stay:

We highly recommend Bali Kite festival, happening all over the island. A stay in our Club Med Bali all-inclusive resort will offer the opportunity to participate in your own kite competition thanks to our New Amazing Family Program.

#9 Mexican Independence Day

16th September

The ultimate cultural experience in Mexico is celebrating the Independence Day on the 16th September! Between fireworks, dance music, Mexican food, flags and flowers all over the city, the celebration is impressive and will leave you with unforgettable memories.

#10 Sapporo Autumn Fest

19th October

If you love gourmet food and you are planing to travel this summer make sure to go to Hokkaido in Japan.

With its own unique atmosphere, the Autumn fest is all about amazing tastes and delicious food that will simply make you happy. You’ll experience the flavors of dishes made from local products of Hokkaido, straight out of the oven, with a glass of Japanese wine or Sake. This giant gastronomical outdoor picnic in the city center is the best excuse to go on a summer mountain vacation.

From Perth, all 17 members of the Lim family stayed in Club Med Cherating Beach, Malaysia for some well-deserved time away together. They enjoyed the exotic jungle surroundings, indulged in all-inclusive food and drinks - perfect for a group full of super energetic and hungry teens and extra-easy for everyone to enjoy their holiday! Discover their full interview and photographs below.

1. Why did you choose to go to Club Med Cherating Beach?

My family had been fortunate enough to have stayed at Club Med Bintan 5 years ago or so and we had always said we would love to go to another Club Med. We were also keen on going on a holiday with our good friends and my sister in laws family before all our kids grew up.

So in planning for this holiday we needed to stay at a place that was hassle free, full of activities for everyone and was also good value for money which is why Club Med was an obvious choice. We decided on Cherating Beach specifically as it was relatively close to Perth.

2. Who did you travel with during your stay?

I have a family of six (kids aged 7,9,11,13) and we travelled with my nephew (aged 15), our good friends ( kids aged 14,16) and also my sister in laws family (kids aged 9,11,13,15).

3. What was your typical day in the resort?

Although the Kids Club was available, our children just loved spending time with their friends and cousins and even us adults! Our typical day in the resort started out with a fantastic breakfast over which we would plan out what everyone wanted to do for the day.

With activities being held at various times for different ages and at different locations, and also having to cater for our group of 17 people, we had to sort out the logistics of who was going where to do what and when !

After busy mornings, lunch and afternoons - we would then return back to our rooms, freshen up and meet back at the bar and Orchid lounge for pre-dinner drinks before having dinner.

After dinner, some of us would stay back to enjoy some more cocktails and watch the evening shows which were always entertaining.

I would often head to the futsal pitch with most of the boys to kick the soccer ball around under lights as these facilities were actually available to use even at that time. This was a great way to burn off any leftover energy from the day and definitely a fantastic way to burn off the calories consumed over dinner

4. What do you love most about Cherating as a destination?

Cherating is actually set amongst a really beautiful natural lush environment which is lovely. I would also say the staff (from the reception staff to the Chief of Village) really made our stay a very memorable and enjoyable one.

5. What were your highlights from the trip?

There actually were plenty of highlights from the trip rather than just one single thing or event. Just seeing the families really enjoy their time together, relaxing and having fun was more than enough of a highlight. The activities were made even more enjoyable because of the staff who were in charge of them. In fact, it was the staff and their pride in their job to make guests feel welcome that really made the trip a fantastic one.

Special mentions to go to:

Gitish who leads the circus team (Ray, Pascale, Candy and Ally). They were all so encouraging and friendly and our kids (and some of us adults) just loved going to the trapeze every day.

Gerard really hit it off with some of the kids at the Archery range and also thanks to Chico, Adam and Kuga who made our time at rock climbing and the tree top course lots of fun.

A personal impromptu dance class kindly organised for us by Mike, the Chief of the Village, was another highlight from the trip.

Guilherme the CM choreographer can truly move and his passion to teach has also inspired our kids to keep dancing.

Participating in all the activities helped us meet lots of amazing people, create precious lifelong memories and we even made some new friends along the way! (A big hello to Andrew, Janelle, Kaitland and Molly Smith from South Australia!).

The food at Club Med Cherating was fantastic and another stand out highlight from the trip. There was always such a huge variety to satisfy everyone in our travel group and the attention to detail and quality of food was second to none.

6. What did you enjoy the most in the resort?

We managed to participate in all the activities during our 7 nights at CM Cherating and they were all enjoyable so it is really hard to pick out just one thing. If I had to choose, I probably enjoyed the Trapeze and Tennis (coached by Annie from Brisbane) and also of course the food the most. I think it really depends on your own interests though with regards to how one can best enjoy the resort. Some of our friends really loved going to the adults only zen pool to relax or having a massage ( not included in the package). Some of our kids really enjoyed the archery and trapeze whilst others enjoyed sailing and playing volleyball. The great thing about the resort was there was so much to do and everyone had ample opportunities to do whatever they preferred.

7. What is your top tip for a successful family trip in Club Med Cherating?

I would suggest staying for long enough (7 nights) to be able to try everything at least once or twice. Get involved in the activities on offer and interact with the fantastic GO's who are there, see what is on every day and then plan your day and night according to what you want to try and which part of the resort you want to spend time in.

8. What are your favourite activities for a perfect family holiday in Club Med Cherating?

I would have to say the eating and drinking are definite favourite activities for a perfect holiday in CM Cherating, followed closely by the Trapeze, hanging out at the sports activity area or going to other side of the resort to enjoy the beach and water activities available there.

9. Which Club Med are you going to next?

We are actually heading back to Club Med Bintan next year to celebrate my mother in law's 75th birthday with all her children and grandchildren. So for this trip, we will have 8 adults and 10 children in total and I am very keen to see how Club Med Bintan compares to our wonderful CM Cherating experience.

Hopefully in the future I can also look at visiting one of the Club Meds in Japan for a snow holiday with my family but that is just a big dream in the pipeline at this stage!

Home away from home in Hokkaido, we hear about this mama’s love for Japan’s beautiful food, people and four seasons

Merlin Chelliah, GM of Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido is a Singaporean mama to 6-year-old Noah. She lives with her son and husband in Hokkaido. We catch up with Merlin to hear about life in the snow and how she juggles motherhood and her career as a woman in authority.

Can you tell us a little about yourself, your career and your family?

I currently serve as General Manager at Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, managing the resort and its 341 rooms, sprawled across 145 hectares of land on Tomamu Mountain. Apart from overseeing the day to day operations of the resort, I’m often seen cooking curries from Singapore and Sri Lanka, preparing Dorayaki on Japanese-themed days, and even hosting and dancing on stage for guests’ nightly entertainment. I have a total of 26 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Prior to my stint at Club Med (where I’ve worked for the last 15 years), I was with Westin Singapore as Guest Relations Manager and worked my way up from my first job as luggage coordinator, to concierge, then Resident Manager in Westin Stamford Crest.

What brought you to Hokkaido? How long have you been living overseas?

Having the opportunity to manage the second Club Med in Japan was truly a dream come true for me. First of all, I love the country, the culture and the people; and to top it all off, it presented me with the biggest move in my career to date – how could I say no?! I’ve been away for 15 years now, and have travelled to more than 11 countries around the world since.

What do you like best about living in Hokkaido/Japan?

It’s difficult to pin down any one reason! The food is amazing – the freshness and complexity of flavours is unmatched anywhere else. The culture is also incredible – everywhere you go, people are friendly, polite and considerate. I’m also a big fan of the vast natural landscapes that Hokkaido has to offer.

Did you give birth to your child in Japan?

I actually gave birth to Noah in Singapore, which was great because I got to be surrounded by my family and close friends, who were my pillars of strength throughout the entire experience.

Can you talk us through your career pre- and post-baby?

The biggest difference for me was the change in my management style. Post-baby, I was more heedful, more gentle in my mannerisms, less directive and more motivational in the way I led my teams.

How have you found holding a position of authority as a woman in general, but also in relation to being in Japan?

It’s natural that some people might still hold on to preconceived gender stereotypes (plus I’m quite petite in size, so it doesn’t help), but as long as you keep a positive mindset and focus on delivering your best work, your guests won’t see gender come to play, but they will see the effort that goes into making their holiday experience as wonderful as it is.

Just remember to never take any negative comments personally, but as an opportunity to grow and better yourself.

Any tips on balancing the juggling act as a mum and in a career?

At first it did take a bit of adjusting, but I think it’s about prioritising your responsibilities. As much as I love the work I do, my family is incredibly important to me, and I would never compromise spending time with them. I’ve also learnt that it’s not just about the quantity of time, but the quality of time you spend with them. So even if it’s small things, like reading with Noah, or just talking to him about his day, it really makes a difference because he knows I’m not just physically present, but that I’m emotionally there for him as well, even when the days get busy.

What are your favourite places in Hokkaido that you would recommend to parents traveling with kids?

Shintoku Soba Hall – a wonderful restaurant that allows guests to try their hand at making authentic soba noodles using locally-produced soba flour from Shintoku – and they get to enjoy it right after with the help of professional chefs!

But many of these can be done as excursions with Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, so maybe Club Med should be number one!

What do you find is the hardest part of being a mother living in a foreign country?

Parenting away from home can sometimes be a challenge, as you’re constantly having to adapt to changing variables, like different lifestyles, environments and cultures – and of course, living in Japan, language differences can also be a barrier at times. But I always try to keep a positive mindset, find a routine that works best for my family and just try to ensure an easy transition for us all.

What is your favourite holiday destination as a family?

A couple of destinations immediately come to mind – the first is of course, Singapore, because home is where the heart is. The second is Kani, Maldives – a perfect amalgamation of rustic and modern lifestyles that offers peace and serenity unmatched anywhere else.

What languages does your son speak? How have you managed to raise a multilingual child – any tips for other parents?

Noah can speak English, Japanese and French. My advice would be to not force your children to learn something they don’t want to, because if the interest isn’t there, it’s truly an uphill battle. Help them find something they’re genuinely interested in, help nurture that passion, and fluency and proficiency will come naturally after.

What mementos/local goodies do you always bring back from Singapore when you visit?

Laksa sauce kits, frozen Prata and Chicken Rice paste!

What’s the one thing you would miss about Hokkaido if you moved away?

The people, the food and the beautiful four seasons – without a doubt.

Jen Dugard, personal trainer, founder of mum-focused fitness business Body Beyond Baby and creator of Fitness Professional education Safe Return to Exercise, took part in Body & Soul 2018 in Club Med Bintan Island just a few weeks ago! She tells us everything about her experience and top tips for an amazing Body & Soul experience.

Body & Soul is a two-weeks wellness journey where participant can come at any time to revitalise mind, body and soul in Club Med Bintan Island, near Singapore. On top of the Must-Try Experiences, you can look forward to additional activities, specially curated by our wellness instructors and partners. Whether with friends or family get ready to Eat Well, Move Well, Play Well and Feel Well to your heart’s content at Club Med Bintan Island, just a one-hour ferry ride from Singapore.

Hi Jen, can you please introduce yourself?

I’m a mum of two, Personal Trainer, founder of mum-focused fitness business Body Beyond Baby and creator of Fitness Professional education Safe Return to Exercise. I am a self-confessed adventurer, love taking part in challenging fitness events and exploring the world. Within my mission to ensure women are exercising safely and effectively after becoming a mother I hope this gives them the strength within to go out there on their own adventures, connect with their family and partners and accomplish all the things they dream of.

Congrats on participating in the Body & Soul 2018 event, how did you find the experience?

Thank you! I had a ball and it’s such a beautiful place to be ‘working’ in. I found all of the Club Med staff and guests to be very welcoming and enthusiastic about Body & Soul. I also gave the classes of some of the other international trainers a go and loved them!

How did you interact with the participants, who were they and how did they respond to your training?

Interestingly, I actually met a lot of Australians along with those from other parts of the world. Energy within our classes was great and I loved spending time with the guests. I especially loved being able to spend some one on one time with a few of the mums that came to my classes and we could talk about their own unique postnatal experiences and follow ups they might do once they got home.

Describe your typical day in Club Med Bintan Island during Body & Soul?

My typical day involved getting up anywhere between 6.30 am and 7.30 am depending on what I had planned; a run or my own training session followed by sampling one of the other trainers classes; yoga or beast move for example. Then heading to breaky to enjoy the amazing Club Med buffet! I would then work for a few hours on my computer (it wasn’t all a holiday for me) though I did take the weekend off and on these two days I relaxed and read by the pool instead of keeping up to date with my computer work. I would eat lunch around 1.30 and at 2 pm it was time to get ready for my mums-only class at 3 pm. An hour’s downtime in-between sessions and then set up for my Bootcamp / Circuit class at 5.15 pm. After this a quick swim, then shower and time for dinner! Some evenings we would then catch the show and others jump in to bed for an early (kid-free) sleep!

What were your highlights of Body & Soul?

Definitely the amazing people I got to meet and the beautiful location!

Where were your favourite spots to relax?

I LOVE spending time by the pool (but with the sun lounger facing the ocean rather than the pool ;) and also on the beach. I also found a couple of quiet hide spots where I could both sit and work but also take in the beautiful surroundings.

What is your top tip to enjoy an active yet relaxing holiday – whether with the family or not?

My top tip would be to make sure you also relax and enjoy yourself and ALLOW yourself some down time as well as activity time. I think we sometimes forget to allow ourselves to just STOP, have fun, read a book or simply do nothing. I’m a big advocate for continuing activity or training on holidays but I like to make sure there’s relaxing too.

What did you pack in your bag for the event?

My bag was FULL of training clothes - both for training myself AND for running sessions. I also had a great book with me for down-time. My computer and notes to stay up to date at work. Ear-plugs and my own pillow - if I can’t sleep I’m grumpy and frustrated so these two things have become a vital part of my travel pack!

How did you feel once the event was finished?

I felt satisfied; excited from the awesome time we had and also a little tired. I was also pretty excited to be heading home to my family too by the end!

What Club Med would you like to try next?

This is a tough one - if it was just my choice I’d be off to the Maldives or Mauritius but I also know my husband is super keen to head to Japan for the snow!

Recently visiting Mauritius, our Design & Content Specialist at Club Med Australia, Marine Raynard shared a bit more about her discovery of the incredible Mauritian culture. This article was written by Marine Raynard and reposted from The Frenchie Escapes' original story. (@thefrenchieescapes). Note: All images below are courtesy of Marine Raynard, and have been shared with permission. For more information about Club Med in Mauritius, discover our two resorts here.

Five things you didn't know about Mauritius

A tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, near Madagascar and the French Island La Reunion, Mauritius is a destination on the rise and has a lot to offer if you are looking to relax, explore diverse landscapes from lush nature to incredible blue waters and discover its amazing culture.

Going from North to South of the island will take only an hour and fifteen minutes but don’t mistake Mauritius’ tiny scale for not a lot to discover and do! With an incredible mix of culture, many different places to discover and even micro-climates following one region to another, it will surely surprise you as it did surprise me on my recent trip!

Eureka House near Black River, Mauritius.

Here are five things which you might not know about Mauritius and which I hope will make you want to discover this beautiful place.

Road near the Seven Coloured Earth, Mauritius

1. Mauritius has an incredible mix of cultures

I went to Mauritius when I was actually 2 years old but when I came back I didn’t realise how heavily French-influenced the island is. And not only! Mauritius proudly mix all of the cultures which have been present through its history from the early times to colonisation to the independence 50 years ago. You’ll discover the incredible Creole culture, full of flavours and colours, mixing both French and English cultures. For a French-speaking person, it’s quite funny to try to understand Creole language but it’s pretty hard! Mauritian kids have to learn French and English as a first-language and then can choose a third-language of their choice, often being Mauritian Creole.

Another culture very heavily influenced in Mauritius is the Indian culture. Indo-Mauritians actually make up to 60% of the population which you can imagine is huge! You’ll see many Hindou temples around Mauritius and delicious Indian food as well. More than Hinduism, there are also Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and Baha’is… An amazing melting pot of culture, all living in peace!

2. It’s a small island but with so much to see

Mauritius has an area of only 2,040m2 – which makes it a whopping 3,795 times smaller than Australia! But with more than a million people living there and many many places to discover, there’s a lot to see on this tiny island!

The seven coloured earth, Mauritius

Some famous places are Black River Gorges National Park with a stunning waterfall, the seven coloured earth, Rhum Distilleries to discover, Port-Louis for a day, L’Ile aux Cerf for the most incredible blue bay, Flic-en-Flac for some beach time, Grande Baie for shopping, Majestic Le Morne Brabant which you can hike… So much to discover!

3. Tourism and Travel is the first industry among others

Being such a small island with no natural exploitable resources, Mauritius has managed to be a champion in many industries over the years. And tourism is now one of the biggest! Take anyone who’s been in Mauritius and they will tell you about the incredible Mauritian hospitality, how nice and helpful people are and all of the incredible places you can stay in! Mauritius is good to explore but also really nice to relax.

Other significant industries in Mauritius are textiles, agriculture with sugar cane (and delicious Rhum) and more and more Information Technology Services.

4. Mauritius has over 27 microclimates!

When talking with Mauritians during my trip, they explained to me how driving from region to region, we could experience very different climates and temperatures. Quite crazy for such a small island! I totally noticed it when we went from the west to the north, where it barely rained during our few days.

There are definitely ways to enjoy a sunny holiday in Mauritius but it could rain from time to time! Again according to Mauritius Inside Out, October is the best month to visit.

Beautiful lush green in Mauritius

5. The late Dodo bird is a national symbol

Fun fact, when I went to Mauritius for the first time as a 2-year old I was absolutely obsessed with the story of the Dodo bird. But the history on how the Dodo bird disappeared is quite sad actually. The Dodo bird was a beautiful big bird (23 kgs) which couldn’t fly having any predators in over 4 million years. When the Arabs arrived as the first people to set foot in Mauritius and Portuguese as well in 1505, Mauritius was a big destination in the spice trade and the Dodo bird was hunted for its meat.

The Dodo of Mauritius – it’s about that big!

And later as the Dutch colons arrived, they brought other species with them: rats, monkeys, and pigs – which all ate the egg of the Dodo bird. Unfortunately, the Dodo bird was laying only one egg per year so its population quickly diminished and the last was seen in 1681.

However, the Dodo bird proudly remains in Mauritius’ culture as a symbol in the coat of arms of Mauritius and in pretty much everything that you’ll see in Mauritius.

Overall Mauritius is a great destination to explore and discover more about its history. I really enjoyed discovering different landscapes, tasting delicious Mauritius food and Rhum, and talking with the local. I must say thanks to my work with Club Med for sending me there, discovering both beautiful Club Med La Plantation D'Albion and La Pointe aux Canonniers and re-discovering the Mauritian Culture all over again!

It's all about planning, timing, ground support and...a few white lies ;) How did Kevin pull off the ultimate #ProposalGoals to his unsuspecting bride, Pauline, with an incredibly romantic sunset setup in Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives, with a breathtaking view overlooking the crystal clear blue water?

“This trip was supposed to be a birthday trip for Kevin, but little did I know he actually planned the proposal about 6 months before we flew there. He contacted the Club Med staff and arranged everything prior to our arrival.

When we arrived, the staff told us that we were entitled a free massage (for one) and an hour photo shoot for his birthday. I totally did not suspect a single thing because I had expected some kind of perks since we were spending Kevin’s birthday during our stay at Club Med.

Apparently, he made use of the time while I was at the massage to arrange the proposal set-up and decor with the staff. During the photo shoot, the photographer brought me to the venue (while Kevin was away due to a “tummy ache”) and I was totally surprised when I saw the entire set up.

Kevin had made a video and I watched it on his iPad. He got all our loved ones to record their blessings and messages and I was literally bawling my eyes out! Everything was so beautiful, especially the view - an open ocean against the backdrop of the sunset. It was the perfect proposal!” ~ Pauline

Congratulations on your engagement, Kevin and Pauline, and thank you for sharing your proposal story with us!

On Monday 12th March, 2018, Mauritius celebrated their 50th year of Independence! And with a mix of cultures from France, England, India, Africa and more, it’s a real melting pot full of culture, colour and smiles! What better way to mark this celebration than taking you on a journey to Mauritius with Club Med?! So close your eyes for a minute and imagine spending your day in the serenity and vibrant culture of Mauritius... …now open your eyes and discover just how amazing 24 hours at Club Med La Plantation d'Albion can be. Discover a warm and welcoming yet relaxing resort set within an unspoiled sun-soaked cove in the midst of beautiful gardens. Indulge in the beauty and serenity of exclusive services, the amazing Mauritian hospitality and dive head-first into that awesome Indian Ocean!

9am – Tropical fruits & yoga by the sea!

Start your morning in the most Zen way with a Yoga lesson overlooking the ocean. Continue you positive and rewarding vibe and choose from delicious tropical fruits and more breakfast yumminess at The Distillerie restaurant. You’ll be fully prepared for the fun day ahead!

11am – Kids fly while parents relax

The kids couldn’t wait to try the trapeze with their new friends so off they go to learn how to fly high in the sky! Nothing to worry about, they are accompanied by the attentive G.Os from the Mini and Junior Club and the awesome trapeze instructor. And this makes the perfect opportunity for the parents to take a bit of time off this morning and lay down by the infinity pool. Ahhh holiday bliss!

1pm – A colourful lunch full of spices!

After an eventful morning, it’s time to reunite around some delicious local Mauritian food for lunch. Prepared with love and care by our local and international G.O team, let them show you the Mauritian way…

3pm – Endless wildlife discoveries

Whether you’re a culture vulture or wildlife warrior, Mauritius has it all! Why not go for a snorkel with the turtles or for a walk with real-life lions? There’s always something fun to do and many opportunities to create new memories!

6pm – Champagne time with a beach walk

After a day full of energy, it’s time to wind down and enjoy the unlimited Champagne by the glass in the intimate setting of the Alouda Bar while the kids get their favourite chocolate crepe at the nearby crepe station. And to top off this magical moment as the sun goes down, go for a stroll along the beach.

8pm – Delicious dinner at the specialty restaurant before the kids put on a show!

Time to wrap up this beautiful day in Mauritius! Try the delicate flavours of vanilla and curry at the specialty restaurant, The Phare, among other Asian and International dishes. After dinner, don’t miss the show the kids are putting on just for you thanks to their fun times at the Mini Club! Finally, get another cocktail or two to celebrate this wonderful day under the Mauritian sun.

Want to hear more about Mauritius? Discover more about Club Med La Plantation D’Albion here.

Why not try something new this winter and discover a new destination off the beaten track? Get your inner explorer out and venture through our 70+ resorts worldwide. Here, we also escape to our top two Club Med resorts in Japan and China - some inspiration for your next winter escape! Use Club Med Kabira, Japan or Club Med Guilin, China as your base and go explore your surroundings. Be bold, be surprised, create new memories and come back to the comfort of your premium all-inclusive package. True bliss!

Let's discover where you might explore this winter:

Amazing Destinations, Unique Playgrounds...

Club Med has been travelling the world to uncover the most amazing places and create little paradises in the best spots. Each resort has its own personality and offers a unique choice of experiences to make the best of each destination. Explore the magic of nature, rejuvenate mind and body, unlock your inner explorer, indulge in local gastronomy or give back to the environment, the local communities, and to yourself.

Perched on the south edge of Okinawa islands in Japan, Kabira island is a preserved gem and the perfect setting for an unforgettable family holiday. Discover the secret of longevity of the Okinawans, the longest living people on earth, and dive in this world-class protected Marine park. Plus, the resort has been voted best Japan family resort in 2017 and "Travelers Choice 2018" winner!

Children aged 2 years to 17 years can also discover nature and Japanese culture with our Kids Clubs.

After a winter full of powder, discover a new side of Tomamu at the height of the Japanese Spring and Summer! Between incredible landscapes, boundless activities for all and vibrant excursions, it's a thrilling Japanese mountain escape. Plus, enjoy the culinary journey with fresh seafood and premium Wagyu beef - yum!

Kids Clubs available from 2 years to 17 years and small group lesson included from 4 years for ski and 8 years for snowboard.

Located at the southern tip of Hainan Island in China, Sanya is the ideal setting for a family holiday between lush gardens and a wide beach. Sports enthusiasts will have an array of activities from sailing to rock climbing, and explorers will love discovering the Hainanese culture with ancient traditions and temples.

Discover a majestic, beautifully preserved site and the most beautiful spot in China: the River Li with its terraced rice fields, mysterious caves and karst mountains. Find your zen or unlock new thrills with trapeze and rock climbing with the little ones in Club Med Guilin. Or just admire over 100 contemporary sculptures and multiple excursions in this splendid part of China.

If you had one day at the new Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, Japan, what would it look like? Recently opened in December 2017, Tomamu is the trendiest ski resort you can experience in the incredible Japan Mountains of the Hokkaido region. Surrounding by perfect powder snow and apres-ski options aplenty, there’s so much to do at the resort in just a day!

Discover your perfect day in Club Med Tomamu and get ready to ride a different wave…

8am – Good morning magnificent landscape!

Right from your spacious bedroom, say hello to a snow-capped mountain view and the beauty of what the Hokkaido landscape has to offer. And breath-in the pure mountain air!

9am – Hit the Hokkaido slopes

Are you ready to shred the Japanese slopes? Put on your ski boots and fly down the powder snow without crowds. Sprawled across over 145 hectares, the Tomamu ski domain is the perfect thrilling snow escape where every turn is a new discovery. You can also pre-arrange your ski gear using the Easy Arrival service, meaning everything is ready in your heated locker awaiting your arriveal, so you can really maximise your time on the slopes!

1pm – Lunch with a view

Savour a variety of international and Japanese delights from the main restaurant. Discover four distinct spaces, each inspired by Hokkaido regions with a unique gastronomic adventure to share. The setting will surely surprise you and so will the view!

3pm – Relaxing family time in the largest indoor wave pool in Japan!

Located outside of Club Med's doorsteps, relax and play in the family-friendly Mina Mina Beach, the largest indoor wave pool in Japan! With a traditional Japanese onsen also attached to the facility, sample a piece of local culture during your visit.

5pm – Re-energise in a cosy environment

After a day full of fun activities, there’s nothing better than curling up by the fire in a cosy and relaxing space. Come take a seat around the fireplace in Club Med Tomamu, grab a hot cocoa and snack from the nearby crepe station and dream away while you watch the snowflakes fall…

7 pm – Discover traditional Japanese food with a specialty dinner at Haku

A culinary journey awaits you! The perfect place to taste the freshest seafood, premium Wagyu beef, and award-winning locally brewed spirits... After the specialty restaurant, wander next door to the Nest Bar for a sake and whisky tasting from the local produces.

9pm - Discover new sensations

The fun continues after the sun sets in Tomamu! Head to the Ice Village and uncover all the activities on offer: ice bar, ice skating or just walking around before heading back to the resort for another drink at The Unkai Bar. Every night is magical in Tomamu!

In just one day, you've experienced amazing new activities and sensations! But one day isn't enough, right? If you'd like explore more unique offering in and around Club Med Tomamu book yourstay here!

Club Med is proud to announce its continued international expansion with the opening Club Med’s first resort in the Seychelles, due to open in 2020. This announcement follows recent news of three more new Club Med destinations– Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Canada/Québec, all to open within the next four years. The new 5 Trident Exclusive Collection Resort on Sainte-Anne Island in the Seychelles archipelago will be open all year round to offer families and active couples an exceptional destination at the heart of the Sainte-Anne Marine National Park.

Seamlessly integrated into its natural environment between tropical gardens, the Indian Ocean and bordered by three white sandy beaches, Club Med Seychelles will offer couples and families an exceptional natural setting and a diverse palette of onshore and offshore sports, including diving, snorkelling, sailing, tennis, flying trapeze and archery.

On the announcement, Henri Giscard d'Estaing, President of Club Med says, “I’m particularly happy to see Club Med secure a base in the Seychelles, one of the three most luxurious destinations, alongside the Maldives and Mauritius. In association with New Mauritius Hotels, our prestigious partner and respected luxury hotel operator, we will be able to offer our guests a new premium destination that fulfils all their expectations from 2020 onwards.”

A major project for Club Med and the Seychelles

The opening of this future Club Med is an integral part of the group’s commitment to open three to five resorts worldwide every year between now and 2020.

For this new project, Club Med is working alongside NMH (New Mauritius Hotels), the largest and longest-established hotel group in Mauritius, where it operates all the Beachcomber hotels on the island.

Beachcomber Hotels also operates the Beachcomber Seychelles Sainte Anne Resort and Spa hotel, which currently has 87 rooms. Club Med’s proposal to take over the hotel under a new leasing arrangement with NMH will see the capacity of the hotel infrastructure significantly expanded.

The opening of the new Club Med Resort will represent a total investment of around €70 million (approximately $109,410,000AUD) for NMH – an investment that will boost its capacity to around 300 rooms, and make a valuable contribution to local economic development through the creation of several hundred direct jobs and an equal number of indirect jobs.

Our G.Os are ambassadors of the Club Med spirit - they contribute to the premium service and lively atmosphere in our 70+ resorts and make the Club Med experience truly unique.

Last October, Michael Clarke, Australian G.O born in New-Zealand, became our first Aussie Chief of Village at the beautiful Club Med Cherating Beach, Malaysia. After graduating from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of International Hotel & Tourism Management, Mike joined the Club Med family in 2004. We asked him some questions about his Club Med experience.

What is your history at Club Med?

I started in golf and moved to Sports Manager, Entertainment Manager and Leisure Manager. I was Chief of Village at Lindeman, Bintan Island, Turks and Caicos, Sahoro and now Cherating. I also did 18 months in the Miami Corporate office as a Human Resource Business Partner.

How do you think Club Med is different from other resorts or hotels you may have worked for?

The staff make it different. The vibe, the ambiance, the interaction between staff and guests in a friendly, international environment.

How and why did you become a Chief of Village at Club Med?

I like to think through hard work and results, I wanted to lead and inspire a team. Happiness is my business!

How and why did you choose Club Med Cherating?

I wanted to return to Asia, this place is a green paradise, combines the jungle with the beach, the location is stunning!

What are you in charge of in an average day?

Management: Team briefing to begin the day, my goal is to unify the team to work on one goal – delivering an exceptional vacation to our GMs, happiness is our business, I believe in something called MBWA – Management By Walking Around –I am hands on, on the field and have a passion for what I do.

What are the most important qualities you look for in your Club Med Cherating Team?

To work as 1 team, to engage our GMs, to work in a friendly professional manner and to have fun!

What are your tricks to keep your team engaged?

You need to reward when need and also to simply say thank you to your team. I also like to be involved in the life of the resort.

A Club Med Chief of Village is much more than just sitting behind a desk... Tell us how you interact with guests?

I love mixing with other cultures, I have learnt some small phrases in various languages and get great joy out seeing the guests react when you can bust out some phrases in their language. I can guarantee the atmosphere will be very energetic this season.

Any favourite memory of being at the resort so far?

Becoming Chief of Village, it was a dream of mine. To be able to reach it was my career highlight.

How did your team welcome you to the Resort? Any funny ‘initiation traditions’?

Haha…. Not that I can share ;) kidding, I was greeted with a cold beer and a pretty awesome traditional dragon dance. The best welcome was the smiling faces of the team.

What are some challenges of being a Club Med Chief of Village?

We work quite long days and 6 days a week. Working for Club Med is a lifestyle. I like the saying “find the job you love and you will never have to work a day in our life” – I can tell you I love what I do. Also, this property is an older resort, we may not have the newest room or facilities but we do have the best atmosphere and location.

What is your favourite thing about Cherating? Why do you think Australians should visit?

The amount of activities here is awesome for active Aussies. From tennis lessons, trapeze, archery, rock climbing, treetop courses, sailing, kayaking, to relaxing at either of our 2 pools (family and adult-only Zen pool) you will always have something to do. We also have one of the best spas in Club Med so after an active day you can relax with a traditional massage.

What is your personal motto?

"Work hard, play hard, party hard!"

Would you encourage other Australians to work at Club Med?

Yes for sure, it is an excellent training school, you will discover new cultures, meet new people, understand customer service – all while working in some amazing locations all over the world – what are you waiting for!

This article was reposted from Eryn Krouse(@erynkrouse). Read the original story here. Note: All images below are courtesy of Eryn Krouse and her photographer Trent Mitchell, and have been shared with permission.

Luxury Travel in the Maldives

After nine days of all-inclusive gourmet food and drinks, staying in two different overwater villa suites, having a personal boat to go to epic surf, and a whole lot of rest and relaxation, you can bet I got a taste of the good life.

Here is what a luxury surf trip in the Maldives looks like.

After a disorienting period of time where I reached the point where I felt as if I had spent my entire life confined to the cramped insides of an airplane, I finally began to spot the infamous atolls that make up the Maldives out the window. Bright, circular, marble-looking blobs surrounded by rings of different shades of blue that looked more like giant eyeballs than little islands, just floating on the surface of the Earth. I touch down on Malé and hear the pilot say, “Welcome to the Maldives”. Finally, I made it to paradise.

CLUB MED KANI

So, picture this. You wake up on a king-size canopy bed with the sunrise peeking through white curtains lightly blowing from the sea breeze. You climb out of bed and step out on to the deck to admire the vibrant blue sheen of the water below you. You might even see a school of fish, or an occasional ray or reef shark swim by. The water looks inviting, so you jump in. Taking a few strokes before turning over on to your back to float, you close your eyes and relax. You hear your significant other calling out your name to let you know that room service has arrived, so you swim back to your dock, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and don a robe from the bathroom. A server is carrying two trays of breakfast items, and he asks you, “Where would you like to eat your breakfast today?” to which you respond “On the front deck, please”. You take a seat outside and uncover the lids to reveal plates of fresh croissants, steaming eggs, crisp bacon, maybe even some warm crepes, and it all smells so good that your mouth waters in anticipation as you pour yourself a hot cup of coffee…

It’s 7:30 am and the day has just begun.

Every day in the Maldives brought a new adventure. With the sun out, the water would shine as a bright, turquoise blue, and I’d eagerly admire the view as I waxed up my board. I’d walk the path from the overwater villa down to the dock with my surfboard in one hand, and my boyfriend’s hand in the other. Once in the boat, we’d speed away into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. It was a common sight to see spotted, lone manta rays cruising by, or a pod of jumping dolphins. Every moment was a different adventure out at sea.

Surfing in the Maldives is a magical experience. The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming under you as you ride a wave of almost transparent looking water. It’s pure stoke. For a complete guide on surfing in the Maldives, click here.

Salty, happy, and surfed out, I take a moment to soak in the sun. It feels so good to lay on the sand, feeling the warm rays on my skin while listening to the soft lapping of the waves onto the coquina shore. I close my eyes in absolute contentment, the kind of content I get only after spending blissful hours in the ocean. This stretch of beach is quiet. The only visible signs of life are the little sand crabs bustling around, bumping into each other.

Back at the villa… my body is sore and a bit sunburnt from surfing all morning. I run the water in the tub for an afternoon of rest and relaxation. On the walk back from the beach, I picked plumeria and hibiscus flowers to put in the bath to create a personal spa in the privacy of my villa. To really pamper myself, I open my brand new products from Malie Organics, including a plumeria scented body scrub and body polish moisturizer… the ultimate pampering experience.

CLUB MED FINOLHU

After spending a week at Club Med Kani, Club Med Finolhu was just a short boat hop away; a continuation of our experience of luxury travel. Our new overwater villa was equipped with a personal pool, an outdoor shower and spa-inspired bath tub, a butler, and a chauffeur to take us to the various all-inclusive restaurants and amenities located at the resort.

Tea time at Club Med Finolhu is an event in itself. Originally established in England in the 1800s by aristocratic British society, the concept of afternoon tea is the very embodiment of comforting luxury, every detail from the china to the atmosphere to the finger food, all adding to the overall experience of mid-afternoon pleasantry.

Wrapped up in soft, white robes, my boyfriend and I sat on the couch in the front room; floor-length doors opened up to the outside deck and the expanse of crystal blue ocean, smooth jazz softly playing through the speakers. Tropical rain quietly fell outside as our butler brought in a selection of Ceylon tea, specially packed in nearby Sri Lanka. Names such as Darjeeling Black, English Breakfast and Moroccan Mint labeled the cloth tea bags, all neatly stacked together in a wooden box. I chose English Breakfast, my personal favorite tea, and Michael chose Darjeeling black, carefully stirring in sugar crystals and organic milk until the tea was a rich, chocolate brown liquid. Bringing the cup of tea up to my mouth, a warm sensation runs through my body as the deep aroma slowly creeps up my nose, traceable hints of spices of the orient. The tea serves as a palette cleanser; the perfect balance of sweet and savory to go with the finger sandwiches, cookies, and tropical fruits.

One could argue that tea is just tea, but there is something special when it transforms into a whole experience; the feeling of being in your own world with no land for as far as you can see; just a muted turquoise ocean blending into the soft grey of the rainy sky. It became an emotional experience that transported me into a state of euphoria that comes only when I feel completely free, without a worry in the world.

Last July, jewellery creator Samantha Wills (@samanthawills), discovered the new Zen Oasis space of Club Med Punta Cana, alongside a fabulous turquoise lagoon in the Dominican Republic. We asked her some questions for a perfect relaxed girls' trip in Punta Cana.

Note: All images below are courtesy of Samantha Wills, and have been shared with permission.

What was it about Club Med Punta Cana that made you want to visit the resort?

Being based in NYC, the Caribbean is so close! I had never visited the Dominican republic before, and when I saw the Zen Oasis private beach, my ticket was booked!

What was your typical day in the Zen Oasis?

I would like to tell you I was up with the sun to join the 5:30am yoga class! But I don’t want to lie to you!

🍳🍊 About 9am, we would walk along the beach to the restaurant at the end of the property & get some fresh scrambled eggs prepared by the chef & freshly squeezed juice.

☕🌊Grab a take away coffee to go and follow our footsteps back along the beach, to the private Zen Oasis beach beds. That is were you would find me most of the day. I loved the thatched umbrellas, and the beach team where never too far away with a cocktail or sparkling water! I packed my bag with a few good beach reads, so between those & ocean dips – it was the ultimate relaxation holiday!

🍤🍴 Lunch was always local seafood…and dinner we would go to the champagne bar, pop a bottle of our favorite bubbles (which grants you access to the private dining area!) where the waves literally lap in underneath the deck. It was perfect.

🍸🎶 We stopped by the beach parties, and live music, but in the full relaxation mode we were in, we took our sun kissed bodies to bed before midnight each night.

It was definitely a holiday we returned from feeling refreshed & rejuvenated.

What was your highlight from the trip?

The Club Med Spa was INCREDIBLE. The massages transcended you to an out of body experience. Thatched huts with billowing white cheese cloth & just the sound of the ocean drifting thru. It was truly incredible.

What did you enjoy the most in the brand new Zen Oasis Space?

Access to the private beach. The gardens in the Zen Oasis where also really beautiful.

What is your top tip for a girls’ trip in Punta Cana?

I think its great, if some of your girlfriends have families with young kids. There is so much stuff for kids to do, but also very separate from the private adult areas of the resort.

While there is buffet style catering for lunch & dinner, you can also choose to eat a la carte, which means there is always on option, because with groups not everyone runs on the same schedule.

What are your must-dos for a holiday to Club Med Punta Cana?

The Champagne Bar is the perfect dinner (and lunch!) spot. The massage in the Club Med Spa is also a must do, (daily if you can!)

Which Club Med resort would you love to go to next?

Morocco looks incredible, but Finolhu in the Maldives will always have my heart!

Are you craving for a peaceful hideaway in Punta Cana like Samantha Willis? Book now to discover the new Zen Oasis space, exclusively for adults.

Club Med is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its iconic Kids Club. That’s 50 years of offering children of all ages, holidays that allow them to explore and be creative in a fun, safe, informal atmosphere.

In that 50 years, Club Med Kids Clubs have set the standard for what a relaxing, inclusive family holiday should be. It’s not just about keeping the children amused so the adults can relax, Club Med Kids Clubs focus on fun, discovery and creativity so children also have a holiday to remember.

It is a winning formula. Club Med Resorts around the world were consistently voted in the top 10 family resorts by voters of the Readers’ Choice Awards 2017 held by Holidays With Kids, specialists in family travel.

One of the main reasons Club Med rates so highly with families is the wide variety of activities for children and the adaptation of activities for each age bracket – from 4 months to 17 years - so every member of the family is able to relax and enjoy a holiday while discovering new things about themselves, as well as the country they’re visiting.

Each child can learn new skills, uncover talents they did not know they had and share experiences with new friends as well as family. Children as young as 3 years old are encouraged to participate in activities such as golf and tennis, overcome fear with the flying trapeze or circus activities, and gain confidence in performing on stage for resort guests including professional (but fun!) rehearsal, lights, costumes and make up.

Behind all the amazing services and activities at Kids Club are the highly trained and passionate G.Os (Gentil Organisateurs) who staff the resorts, and are why visitors return year after year.

“One of the most rewarding things is having families extend their stay because of the Kids Clubs – we have had three this season!” says Tamarra van der Zweep, an Australian Petit Club Manager at Club Med Phuket. Tamara has an Advanced Diploma in Child Care and Community Services, as well as over 11 years’ experience in child care.

Kids Club G.Os are focused on ensuring each child feels unique yet included and comfortable with a range of activities suitable for all personalities, big and small. Kids Club also provides a chance to meet kids from other countries, learn their language and culture with help from the G.Os, many of which speak multiple languages, including English.

Dario Latuary, Mini Club Manager at Club Med Bintan Island, says one of the reasons children love Kids Clubs is because each carer takes time to bond with the children when they arrive at the club. “That’s why there’s many repeat visitors and why they remember us, even when they grow up."

“Being a Mini Club G.O and working with the kids is the most important job. And it’s not just a job it’s your life. My personal motto is: Live the life you love, and love the life you live. In this case, it’s my job.”

As well as the different Kids’ Clubs, many Club Med resorts feature a kids’ only pool, and Mini Club kids also have the opportunity to eat early meals in a special section of the restaurant in most resorts.

Club Med resorts also offer babysitting services and evening Pyjama Club for children aged 2 to 10 years.

The different Club Med Kids Clubs are:

▪️ Baby Club Med: For children aged from 4 to 23 months. Baby Club Med focuses on senses and feelings, with engaging play areas and a staff ratio that ensures each baby receives special attention.

▪️ Petite Club Med: For children aged 2 to 3 years. Petite Club Med focuses on discovery and socialising with activities such as face painting, pyjama parties, and puppet shows.

▪️ Mini Club Med: For children aged 4 to 10. Mini Club Med focuses on energy and fun activities such as Club Med’s famous Circus School programme, arts and crafts and sports.

▪️ Club Med Passworld and Junior's Club Med: For older kids, aged 11 to 17. Club Med Passworld and Junior's Club Med are dedicated teen spaces offering everything from creative activities to movie and disco nights, as well as sports and technical arts.

Surrounded by endless ocean, colourful coral and epic surf breaks. Its no surprise Australian photographer Trent Mitchell (@trent_mitchell_) produced some serious wanderlust-inducing photographs from his recent Maldives trip at the Manta Exclusive Spacewith model Eryn Krouse (@erynkrouse). Trent's deep love for the ocean and the Maldives settings made the perfect backdrop for his snaps. We asked him some questions about his experience as a photographer.

Note: All images below are courtesy of Trent Mitchell, and have been shared with permission.

What makes the Maldives so 'photographable'?

As a passionate water-based lifestyle and travel photographer I’d have to say the water’s colour, clarity and diversity in colour! I’ve never seen so many different blues. I can’t wait to head back and explore and shoot more in the waters and on the islands of the Maldives. It’s just incredible.

What makes Club Med Kani in particular, so great to photograph?

The single best attribute islands have for photography is the flexibility of having a 360 degree field of view to work with. Putting a resort of Club Med Kani’s standards on an Island gives a photographer an unlimited canvas for creating beautiful images all day. There’s always somewhere incredible to shoot no matter what the day brings.

What separates the Maldive beaches from others?

I’d have to say the pure whites of the sand and the vibrant water colour. Everything just pops. Simply put, some days it feels like your living inside a postcard. It’s overwhelmingly beautiful.

What were your favourite activities at Club Med Kani when you weren’t shooting?

I was staying in the Manta overwater suites at Club Med Kani and I’m a morning person so my favourite thing was quite possibly the simplest thing given the seemingly unlimited activities available. Waking to the sun rising over the water, throwing on my board shorts and going for my morning swim in the crystal clear waters was without a doubt my favourite thing to do. Most people sleep in, so some days it felt like I had the resort to myself! I actually can’t think of a better way to start a day, anywhere.

Share with us your favourite shot – what makes it great?

I couldn’t select just one from my shoot so I picked a single image from three different perspectives of the resort. Eye level, above and below the water. The photos are all of Eryn Krouse enjoying her time in Kani.

📷 The first shot reminds me of how beautiful and relaxing it is to live over the water for a week.

📷 The second photo is Eryn paddling out to the surf break named Ninja’s located on the outside reef behind the resort. I like the feel of the crisp blue waters.

📷 Lastly, the final shot is taken under the waves at Ninja’s. It’s a beautiful moment of Eryn gracefully navigating through the surf between waves.

Which Club Med resort would you like to photograph next, and why?

I’d love to revisit the Maldives to be perfectly honest! It’s a bucket list location for me and I’d love to indulge in the Club Med Finolhu Villas experience for the extreme luxury and the waters surrounding the resort offer endless photographic opportunities. If I had to choose a different country it seems so hard to choose but I’d have to go with snowboarding in Japan. I’ve never been to Japan and I can’t think of a better culture to experience, things to do and photograph! Let’s go!

The renowned pioneer of all-inclusive resorts announced the much-anticipated return of its world-famous ski offering to North America through the creation of its first-ever Canadian resort.

November, 2017 – Club Med brings its unique all-inclusive mountain holiday offering to the heart of an already renowned ski region situated at the highest point in Eastern Canada, including a unique ski experience with spectacular waterfront views overlooking the Saint Laurence River. Club Med and Groupe Le Massif plan to open this new resort by the end of 2020.

Daniel Gauthier, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Groupe Le Massif, and Xavier Mufraggi, President and CEO, Club Med North America, have officially announced the opening of the first Club Med resort in Canada.

“It’s often said that you’ll only ever find a Club Med resort in the most beautiful places in the world. Charlevoix doesn’t need to have a Club Med to be included on this select list. That said, it is an honour and privilege to be amongst those creating worldwide awareness for this spectacular part of the country,” states Xavier Mufraggi. “Club Med is the world leader in all-inclusive mountain hotels and resorts. With more than 20 sites already established in France, Italy, Switzerland, Japan and China counting for more than 6000 rooms, we’re excited to add Canada (and specifically Quebec) to the list. Each season will reveal the wonders of this natural site, offering an international clientele a place of beauty to discover. Also, this project serves as a strategic symbol of rapid growth around the world for Club Med, with fifteen openings taking place through 2019, representing one to two mountain resorts openings per year.”

“The announcement is in direct alignment with the continued development of this significant project that will position Le Massif, Charlevoix, among one of the greatest international destinations,” comments Daniel Gauthier, the initiator of the project. “Club Med is a world-recognized symbol, promoting an active lifestyle, family and well-being. With shared values, the partnership between Club Med and Le Massif, Charlevoix, is one of authenticity.”

The project represents a $120 million investment with the objective of developing 300 rooms including 4-Trident Club and Deluxe-level rooms with a 5-Trident luxury space. The future resort promises to be a haven for family and couple getaways as well as ideal for groups, with spaces provided to accommodate seminars and events.

Investment and positive economic impact

While this recreational tourism project is born of a great vision, it is based on a solid economic outcome. Partners, including the governments of Quebec and Canada, Guy Laliberté and Lune Rouge, Investissement Québec, Pierre Thabet, Groupe Germain all have confirmed their investment, while Desjardins and the National Bank of Canada have established their support. The project also counts on Bell a long standing major sponsor of the Massif de Charlevoix.

Groupe Le Massif and Club Med aim to offer a four-season product that emphasizes Quebec’s strongest touristic features of the region from Quebec to Tadoussac. The announcement of these plans will also stimulate real estate development within the region and on the mountain.

This project forecasts the creation of 325 direct jobs and 400 indirect jobs. The construction of the hotel will generate near 700 jobs. The agreement with partners guarantees a mutually profitable endeavour for all.

This much-anticipated project will benefit several major players within the regions of Quebec and Charlevoix, including the Quebec airport, which forecasts a 6% increase in flights directly connected to this project. From day one Club Med plans to develop partnerships with a variety of local suppliers. The resort will be easily accessible; a mere 90 minutes from the International Airport of Quebec.

About Club Med

Club Med, founded in 1950, is recognized as the pioneer of the all-inclusive market, offering nearly 70 premium resorts in stunning locations around the world including North and South America, Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean.

Club Med operates more than 70 resorts. Established in 26 countries across five continents, the group employs more than 23,000 employees comprised of 110 varied nationalities. Club Med has had a corporate presence in Canada for over 40 years and employs a staff of more than 50 team members in their Montreal head office.

Club Med Le Massif will reinforce the link between Quebec residents with the Club Med concept. More than 40,000 Canadians stay at a Club Med resort each year, with the biggest majority coming from Quebec. Every year, close to 300 Canadian G.O.s are recruited (“Gentil Organizers” - an internal, endearing term used for all Club Med employees), again with the majority coming from the province of Quebec. “In many ways, Quebec has been at the heart of Club Med. Now, finally, Club Med will be at the heart of Quebec,” states Mr. Mufraggi.

About Groupe Le Massif

The Massif de Charlevoix project was launched in 2002 by Quebec developer, Daniel Gauthier. Mr. Gauthier is a recognized co-founder of the world-leading Quebec sensation known worldwide: Cirque du Soleil.

As the first Club Med mountain resort in North America, and by virtue of the symbiosis between creativity, authenticity, an appreciation for culture, society and tourism, Le Massif, Charlevoix, promises to be awe-inspiring with a picturesque setting, an outstanding line-up of activities, excellent food and unsurpassed reputation for service.

This magnificent project is built on a foundation of three pillars with the objective to provide an experience that is deeply personal, emotional, original, and environmental, while focusing on the development of sustainable tourism within one of Quebec’s most popular regions, and designated as a world biosphere reserve in 1989 by Unesco.

Think Hokkaido, and powder snow pops to mind... Blanketed in a sheet of pristine white, winter has never looked more captivating! Arguably the best winter holiday destination in Japan, beautiful natural landscapes meet with magnificent volcanic origins to create a mystical wonderland - Welcome to Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido!

Scheduled to open in December 2017, here's a little foretaste of all the Must Try Experiences available in this brand new all-inclusive resort for your next family snow holidays!

The ultimate powder snow experience

Strap on your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes! Gear up with rental equipment and take to the slopes for endless half pipes, table tops, kickers, rails, and boxes – why glide on the snow when you can ride a different wave?

Can’t ski? Experience the rush of wintry winds on snow sleds or ice slides. Snowshoe across soft powder with the mountainscape as your backdrop. With 145 hectares of snow to frolic in, state-of-the-art equipment, and expert instructors to guide you with group lessons, Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido caters to both beginners and experienced snow sportsmen. For the adventurous at heart, night skiing is also available at an extra cost from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm every weekend.

Memorable (or maybe not so...) nights at the Ice Village

The magical Ice Village is available during the winter in Tomamu, where temperature can drop as low as -30°C. Our guests enjoy convenient access to this gorgeous village illuminated by deep blue lights. Create the perfect memory of ice skating, ice slides and dining at the ice restaurant.

Enjoy an icy tipple in hand-carved ice glasses. After all, how often have you hung out at a bar made completely out of ice? Trendy, unique, and eye-catching, it ticks all boxes for an Insta-worthy visit.

Paddock-to-plate Yakiniku barbecue

Savour an authentic Yakiniku barbecue experience, grilled right at your table at Haku, our specialty restaurant. Choose from a variety of mouth-watering meats including premium cuts such as Japanese Wagyu beef – all perfectly prepared to add some sizzle to your meal. Tenderly chargrilled meats that melt in your mouth – a truly authentic Japanese culinary experience.

Hokkaido is also renowned for its delectable local seafood. Haku offers a selection of fresh seafood such as crabs, sea urchins and scallops for guests looking for an unforgettably fresh dining experience.

Guided whiskey & sake tasting

The zen-themed Nest Bar is the perfect location to unwind after an exhilarating day on the mountains. What better way to relax than by sinking into a cosy chair with a glass of sake in hand?

Guests can also indulge in a sensory journey with tasting sessions of locally-sourced whiskey and sake. Here, enjoy 5 premium Japanese whiskies such as the award-winning Nikka and Suntory’s single malt Yamazaki or Hakushu, as well as local artisanal sakes.

Japan’s largest indoor wave pool

Make a splash at Mina Mina beach, Japan’s largest indoor wave pool. Paddle board in balmy waters in the 80m long and 30m wide wave pool, or laze in the cradle of gentle waves. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it?

The Mina Mina Beach bustles with activity during the daytime, but transforms into a peaceful respite after 8:00 p.m. when it is lit up with soft, romantic lights.

Relax in an open air onsen

Hokkaido is home to a great variety of onsen – unique hot springs dotted around the region for travellers who prefer a more relaxing experience. Soak in a warm outdoor bath while taking in the wintry landscapes. In the daytime, be treated to a sight of endless fields of unspoiled natural beauty. Come nightfall, admire constellations overhead. A delight for both mind and body, Kirin-no Yu in the neighbouring Hoshino resort is located just adjacent to the Mina Mina beach.

Aromatherapy is also offered, where essential oils extracted from Hokkaido vegetation are heated. Guests can enjoy wafts of fragrant natural oils for a soothing experience. Aroma profiles are refreshed monthly, making it both a surprise and a whole new experience every visit!

Double the fun with Club Med Sahoro Hokkaido

If you can’t get enough of Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, swing by Club Med Sahoro Hokkaido, located just 30 mins away. Tackle the advanced ski trails or simply relish in a more traditional Japanese experience.

Hokkaido has a plethora of sights and activities for visitors all year round, but winter is when the destination truly shines. With its unspoiled natural beauty and inexhaustible list of exciting winter activities, Hokkaido is the ultimate destination for a fun-filled winter vacation.

So if you are looking for the best time to visit Hokkaido, why not now? Start planning your trip for an unforgettable winter vacation.

We specialise in luxury all-inclusive holidays – with absolutely no hidden costs.Thrilling skiing, sensational islands getaways and wonderful cultural discoveries -just a few of the experiences you can enjoy with Club Med.